The Rock Island City Council met in reconvened session at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 6, 2003, in the Personnel Conference Room of Rock Island City Hall. Present were Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert, presiding, and Aldermen Terry M. A. Brooks I, David R. Conroy, John E. Bauersfeld, Vern L. Winter, Evelyn “Evie” R. White and Frank J. Forlini, Jr. Alderman Beth Y. Mahlo was absent. Staff present included City Manager John C. Phillips, Public Works Director Bob Hawes, Community and Economic Development Department Director Greg Champagne, Planning Administrator Alan Carmen, Administrative Assistant to the Public Works Director Tim Ridder, Police Chief Terry Dove, Fire Chief Al Sinksen, Finance Director Bill Scott, Personnel Director/Assistant to the City Manager John Thorson, Martin Luther King Center Director Jerry Jones, Utilities Superintendent George Seiz and Building Inspector Tom Ayers.
City Manager John Phillips indicated that there were several items to be discussed regarding the budget, and there would be an Executive Session on Property Acquisition if there was enough time. City Clerk Jeanne Paggen stated that the stationary items for Council members were in Council Chambers. Mr. Phillips distributed information from Assistant City Attorney Ted Kutsunis indicating that the vote on the alley vacation requires six affirmative votes.
Mr. Phillips then reviewed the budget changes that were being proposed. He asked that Bob Hawes, Public Works Director, discuss the Parking Fees and Fines. He also noted that the downtown business group would be meeting Tuesday morning, and he and Mr. Hawes would be attending that meeting to address some of their issues and to listen to their input.
Alderman White asked if the parking fees cover the cost of the maintenance. Mr. Hawes stated that they would with increased permit fees, adding that the new fees come closer to covering these costs. He indicated that they were recommending two new permits – one for the parking ramp roof and one for Lot D – and eliminating the night shift permit. He added that they were also recommending an increase in monthly permits and fines. He stated that there was a question last time about the Courtesy tickets, and last year, there were 3,300 Courtesy tickets issued. He stated that the new Auto-Site hand-held equipment allows the parking attendants to issue the Courtesy tickets to those who are found to be parking illegally as long as they do not have their names already in the system. If the name is in the system, a parking ticket is automatically issued.
Mr. Hawes then discussed the yard waste system. He stated that staff looked into the possibility of someone in the private market providing the pick-up and disposal of yard waste. He noted that several smaller communities from the surrounding area who use private contractors for this service were contacted. Several of them contract with Prairie Waste for both regular collection and yard waste. Both Prairie Waste and Millennium Waste were contacted to see if they were interested in providing the yard waste collection service for the City of Rock Island. Mr. Hawes stated that there was no definition provided regarding how the service would operate, but a franchise or subscription service were two options discussed. He noted that a spokesperson from Prairie Waste indicated some interest but noted that he would have to discuss this with other members of the company before getting back to staff. Millennium Waste expressed little interest in just picking in yard waste, but did express an interest in a franchise for regular waste, yard waste and possibly recycling.
Mr. Hawes stated that the recommendation at this time is to eliminate the curbside collection and go to a Drop-Off Center. One alternative would be a subscription service, where the customer pays an annual fee and signs up for the service, which then gives staff the opportunity to follow a “milk route” rather than drive all over the city to look for yard waste. He stated that the success of this service would depend on the number of people who would sign up for the service. He indicated that one of the staff members suggested offering some stickers along with the subscription service.
Following the presentation by Mr. Hawes, Council discussed the options available. Alderman Bauersfeld stated that the drop-off would be a logical step from the curbside pick-up. Alderman Winter suggested the cost of the subscription service could be $150.00 and the customer would receive thirty stickers to use during the year. Alderman Conroy noted that this would reduce the cost of driving around. Mr. Hawes noted that the drop-off center would also be available for those who did not wish to participate in the subscription service. Following discussion, the general consensus of Council was to use a mixed system, with the drop-off option, and have staff work further with Prairie Waste regarding the subscription system to determine whether privatizing this or doing it in-house would be cheaper.
Mr. Hawes then noted the Parking Lot – Plaza Snow Removal. He indicated that the streets would be cleaned off first, and this would be done after that. Mr. Phillips indicated that this would probably be discussed in greater detail at the meeting to be held in the morning downtown.
Sales Tax TIF was the next issue. Following a basic review by Greg Champagne, Community and Economic Development Department Director, Alderman Bauersfeld suggested that this option be left on the table while other options were being discussed.
The D.A.R.E. program was the next issue that was unresolved at the last meeting. Mr. Phillips noted that this did not rank high in the core service functions. He added that the schools are not as far along in their budget planning process, but he did not believe they would be able to contribute more than $20,000 for the program as they are currently.
Alderman Brooks stated that he believes that D.A.R.E. is a good program, but he feels that the schools need to come up with more money. Mayor Schwiebert stated that this is not a school program, but rather a Police and Crime Prevention Program. He indicated that it is an important part of community policing. Alderman White suggested that the schools be put on a sliding scale beginning with 10% of the total cost until it becomes a 50/50 share of the costs for the program.
Alderman Bauersfeld stated that he felt the D.A.R.E. Program should be eliminated. Alderman Forlini questioned the effectiveness of the program, referring to reports he read. Alderman White stated that 60 Minutes had a program about D.A.R.E. which indicated that it is effective. Mayor Schwiebert stated that it creates a connection in the community between the kids and police officers. Chief Dove stated that there are reports that indicate that it is effective as well as others that question its effectiveness. He stated that past D.A.R.E. officers have been able to communicate with former students effectively, and they have built trust and communication. He indicated that the program serves a good purpose. Alderman White noted that she thinks the schools should contribute more. Alderman Conroy stated that he believes that it is a school function but the City provides the Officers to conduct the program. He stated that he agrees with Alderman White that the schools need to increase their support by 10% of the total cost each year.
Alderman Forlini stated that the schools should be told that this is a gradual increase on their part and a gradual decrease on the part of the City. Alderman Conroy asked about the fundraisers indicated by Chief Dove. Chief Dove stated that the money raised by the fundraisers is used for graduation extras, t-shirts and other supplies not covered by the budget. He stated that the D.A.R.E. officers currently have two fund raising activities each year and they are hesitant to add more at this time.
Consensus was to get some feedback from school administrators about the program.
The Brick Street Maintenance Contract was the next item to be discussed. Alderman White suggested that the percentage that is cut back on the regular street maintenance should be the same percentage to be cut from the brick street program. She stated that it should not be eliminated entirely.
The elimination of two fire positions was the next item. City Manager John Phillips stated that these two positions were not budgeted, and they have remained vacant this past year. He stated that there would be no layoffs, and there would be a minimal impact on service. Alderman White referred to the representative of the firefighters who spoke to Council last week and expressed concerns about the safety of the citizens. Mr. Phillips clarified that the person who spoke is the president of the Firefighters Union, and there is some question about the two in/two out issue. He stated that he is not aware that it is a state law. He added that there will not be four people on the scene unless the stations are consolidated.
Following discussion, it was determined that there are some issues for further discussion:
the D.A.R.E. Program, snow plowing/removal, firefighters and the TIF sales tax issues to be addressed at the next meeting. The other options will also be reviewed at that time.
There was not enough time to have the Executive Session at this time. A motion made by Alderman Brooks and seconded by Alderman White to adjourn the meeting CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 p.m.
___________________________
Jeanne F. Paggen
City Clerk
The Rock Island City Council met in regular session at 6:45 p.m. on Monday, January 6, 2003, in the Council Chambers of Rock Island City Hall. Present were Mayor Mark W. Schwiebert, presiding, and Aldermen Terry M. A. Brooks I, David R. Conroy, John E. Bauersfeld, Vern L. Winter, Evelyn “Evie” R. White and Frank J. Forlini, Jr. Alderman Beth Y. Mahlo was absent.
Mayor Schwiebert called the meeting to Order and led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America. Alderman White gave the Invocation. A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Forlini to approve the Minutes of the meeting of December 23, 2002, as printed, CARRIED on a Voice vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Mayor Schwiebert gave his annual State of the City Address. The address, in its entirety, follows:
STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS—JANUARY 6, 2003
This last year 2002 was a year of opportunities and
set backs, elections and changes, and even, amidst it all, some local foreign
policy.
A Review of the Year Just
Ended.
A. Economic Developments:
Despite continuing national
economic problems, we were able to sustain healthy commercial and industrial
development within the City of Rock Island during the last year.
KJWW Engineering nearly
doubled its office space at its west side Rock Island headquarters and
continues to grow as a major Midwestern engineering firm. Modern Woodmen of America progressed on its
major remodeling and expansion projects downtown and is shortly to be opening a
new bank in the Sheraton Four Points building.
Illinois Casualty Insurance Company broke ground at Third Avenue and
20th Street on its $3 million, 24,000 square foot, new corporate
headquarters. A couple blocks to the
east of the Illinois Casualty site and also on Third Avenue, Trinity Medical
Center began construction of its impressive new Robert Young Center building.
Meanwhile, in our Southwest
“new town” area, Rock Island Marketing Solutions took over the old Jaydon
building and landed a major national contract with strong prospects for further
growth in the future. Also in the Southwest,
Isotech Manufacturing undertook a $2 million expansion and now employs 80
employees in their business of manufacturing specialized bearing isolators for
industries around the world.
Growth of the Arts and Entertainment District
likewise continued apace, complementing the expansion of office and
professional uses downtown. Last year
saw the addition of Café Noire, a European-flavored bistro and wine cellar, as
well as the opening of the MidCoast Arts Gallery and the Midwest Writing
Center, all on Second Avenue. Glass
Impact, a wonderful producer of art and architectural customized glass
products, completed a $283,000 expansion to accommodate its growing glass
business in the heart of the District.
Overall projects, public and private just in the
downtown, over a three-year period will total over $80 million.
In addition, a City program started in the mid-‘80’s
with a few hundred thousand dollars of federal seed money—the City of Rock
Island Commercial Industrial Revolving Loan Fund, or “CIRLF”—continues to
demonstrate how the public and the private sectors can work together
effectively to create new opportunities and economic expansion. CIRLF recently reported that over the last
15 years it has extended over 146 loans using just $1.7 million in public money
to leverage over $68 million in private investment to create or retain 2,660
jobs in Rock Island. This program has
also served as a model for a Bi-State Revolving Loan Fund servicing the entire
Illinois-Iowa Quad Cities region; and has been recognized by the U.S. Economic
Development Administration (USEDA) as a model of public/private partnership
deserving federal financial support. At
the end of 2002, the fund balance of CIRLF with repayments on loans outstanding
was strong enough that no further funding by the city will be required in the
year to come to meet the anticipated healthy loan demand for added businesses
seeking to start, relocate, or expand in Rock Island.
Finally in the economic development area, we’ve
continued to see good progress regionally with efforts to preserve and
strengthen the Rock Island Arsenal. As
a result of coordination led by the Quad City Development Group, and working
closely on a bipartisan basis with our Illinois and Iowa congressional
delegations, we’ve now obtained over $65 million worth of new funding for the
Arsenal—including $32.8 million in appropriations in the last year alone. A number of new functions have also been
added to the Arsenal base operations, including most significantly during the
last year the siting of the new Northwest Regional Office of The Army
Installation Management Agency. This
office will oversee management on military bases in the entire Western United
States from Ohio to Oregon and Texas to North Dakota. Although threats of privatization and future base closings still
imperil the Arsenal’s future, the continued placement of functions at the
Arsenal should better assure our region’s second largest employer can continue
to play its historic and important role in our Nation’s defense in providing
the core function of equipping our men and women in uniform with the tools they
need to do their difficult jobs at home and abroad.
B. Residential:
On the residential front we also saw some good
progress in 2002. Not only did we see
the rapid lease up of the 52 units of market-rate rental units introduced in
2001 in the downtown Goldman and Renaissance Buildings, but we also maintained
a healthy waiting list for these units last year. In addition, we broke ground
late in 2002 on the new Clipper Condominiums on Second Avenue and 16
Street. These condominiums will
represent some of the first newly built owner-occupied, downtown housing in the
Quad Cities region in memory. As such,
they also demonstrate Rock Island’s continued leadership in downtown
redevelopment and rediscovery. Due to
the able initiative of the Rock Island Economic Growth Corporation and its
talented staff, during this coming year, we look for the Sala Apartments across
from the public library downtown, and the Rich Manor Apartments on 17 Street to
be redeveloped to provide additional great housing opportunities in the
downtown or near downtown areas.
New home infill projects between the rivers also
continue to be marketed very successfully—including the new Watch
Hill Oaks Condominiums being developed on 31st Avenue and 17th
Street. And, in the Southwest area—our
city’s base for greatest potential residential growth—Ridgewood West
Subdivision and Foxwood Addition have largely sold out; and we’re seeing
growing developer interest in opening several additional subdivision sites in
the southwest this year.
C. City Services:
In the area of city services,
despite the challenges posed by declining revenues and increased costs of
governmental operations, Rock Island was able to retain it’s A-2 Moody bond
rating and to secure very favorable treatment on a recent bond offering for
capital improvements.
On the subject of capital improvements, during this last year the City of Rock Island saw an almost unparallel level of expenditures for these purposes throughout the city. Total capital expenditures budgeted in 2002-03 exceeded $24 million. Aided by State grants, as well as enhanced funding for capital projects made possible by allocation of $1.9 million of riverboat gaming dollars, many of our major arterial streets saw redevelopment this last year. Although the public’s patience has been at times tested with the many projects underway, including 17th Street south of 18 Avenue and the Third, Fourth and Fifth Avenue corridors downtown, the greatly improved condition of our public thoroughfares will hopefully justify your patience as we improve the flow of traffic throughout our city on enhanced, beautified corridors.
The City Council also late
last year adopted a new comprehensive zoning ordinance which will provide a
greater range of flexible classifications that should be useful on two
fronts. First, the new ordinance will
allow us to approach land use with a variety of 21st century
classifications—such as research and office parks, alternative conservation
uses, and transitional classifications for offices to buffer between business
and residential areas. Second, this new
ordinance represents part of a comprehensive uniform zoning ordinance developed
over the last half decade for the entire Illinois Quad Cities. Like the uniform subdivision ordinance
adopted a number of years ago, this new zoning plan, once adopted by the
principal cities and Rock Island County, will make development on the Illinois
side of the river more user-friendly and should help stimulate greater private
sector development initiatives in the Illinois Quad Cities.
During the last year, the City completed construction
of the new Family Aquatic Center which will be ready to open this coming
Spring. Riverboat Gaming dollars
coupled with some generous private grants, have largely financed this fine
addition to our city in one of its most historic and beautiful parks. And, through many fits and starts, details
were finally ironed out on the agreement between Illinois, Iowa and the cities
of Rock Island and Davenport, for state takeover of the Centennial Bridge. Because of higher than estimated bids when
these were opened late last summer, further adjustments were required which
delayed contract signing until December, 2002.
Nevertheless, the construction process is at last underway, with tolls
projected to come off at the end of this April.
During 2002, our city’s Historic Preservation
Commission received statewide recognition in winning the Illinois Local
Preservation Award for outstanding work in fostering preservation of homes and
buildings throughout our city. At the
same event, the Rock Island Argus received the distinguished Richard H.
Dreihaus Foundation Preservation Award for two of its outstanding series
featuring Rock Island’s architectural history. We congratulate the Argus and its
writers on this award; and thank them for their continuing effort to celebrate
our history, while keeping the public informed about our current affairs.
A couple of other events during the past year deserve
mention. As noted at the beginning of
my remarks, last year we engaged in some local foreign policy. In conferences of mayors I’ve attended over
the last several years, it has been frequently mentioned that municipalities
now account for 85% of our nation’s gross domestic product; and some of our
bigger cities have economies considerably larger than the national economies of
good sized countries in Western Europe.
However, the concept of local governments having their own foreign
policies was brought vividly home last fall.
In the span of a single week we hosted a delegation from the City of
Zixing in Hunan Province, China—a city located on the main highway between
Bejing, the capital of China, and Hong Kong—and we helped receive the Swedish
Ambassador to the U. S. on a visit to Augustana College.
The visit from the Chinese
delegation laid the foundation for a sister city relationship with this growing
commercial center in southeastern China.
It was interesting to learn from the Mayor of Zixing, that cities in
China actually have their own foreign trade officers and are empowered by the
national government to actively pursue their own trade relations overseas: an interesting concept of which we will
doubtless see more in our own country in years to come.
Debbie and I also helped
greet the Ambassador from Sweden to the U.S. in an event graciously hosted by
Augustana College. We need to thank
Augie for facilitating both visits; and for providing translation skills and
advice on our local experiment in global diplomacy with the Chinese. This cooperation served to remind us once
again what excellent educational facilities we have in Rock Island, that lend
so much to our civic life and to enrichment of our understanding of the world
around us.
Looking to the Year Ahead
As to the year ahead, probably the single largest
issue that confronts us is the continuing weak national economy. Softness in markets here and overseas,
decline in consumer confidence evidenced by indications of reduced consumer
spending, and the diminishing effect of the Federal Reserve’s gallant efforts
to stimulate the economy by interest rate cuts, all suggest that the next year
is likely to be very challenging. We’ve
all heard about the deficits in Springfield, Des Moines, and Washington. These same problems are echoed in cities and
states across the country—Rock Island included. Despite hiring freezes and targeted cuts in spending during this
last year, it will still be a very tight thing to end this year with a balanced
budget. During the coming year, and
despite continuation of cost cutting measures, we are looking at a nearly $2
million deficit, absent tax increases or service cuts.
As a result, the City Council
has directed staff to prepare a review of city services with the objective of
trying to determine what if any services might be cut as non-essential, and
also what alternative revenues might be pursued to plug the deficit hole. One measure that could minimize tax
increases or service cuts for the short haul would involve shifting utility tax
dollars from capital to operations, with riverboat gaming revenues picking up
the slack in funding capital improvements.
This would follow the strategy that led us in last year’s budget to
supplement other sources with gaming dollars for capital improvements when
times were good. That strategy would
now lead us to fund at pre-gaming levels capital expenditures using gaming
dollars instead of utility taxes when times are tough.
We can expect to see some modest
fee and property tax levy increases.
Because property taxes are inherently regressive and fall most heavily
on those with fixed incomes who suffer the most during a recession; and because
of the fact that any accelerated rate in property taxes makes our position
within the Quad Cities economy less competitive, we have to be very careful
about such increases. It may not be
possible to reduce the rates which we adopted last year—the same rate next year
will allow a 6.9% levy increase due to growth in the citywide property
values.
Viewed historically, it
should be noted that our City Council, with strong staff support, has made
diligent efforts over the last decade and a half to reduce our dependence on
property taxes: the rate itself has declined
from a high of $4.13 per hundred dollars assessed valuation in 1991 to $2.54 in
2002. Since 1989 our dependence on
property taxes for General Fund purposes has declined from 44% of our General
Fund expenditures to just 28% now.
These reductions have actually caused the net inflation-adjusted
property tax dollars collected by the city to be lower now than they were 15
years ago.
Nevertheless, and even though
recent studies show overall tax costs in Iowa are higher than Illinois; our
property tax rates when combined with other taxing bodies in Rock Island,
continue to make our property taxes somewhat higher than our sister
cities. This has to be an ongoing
concern that we in City Hall take to the table as we plan for tight budget
times.
The problem really comes from
the fact that our costs keep going up—from state mandated pension increases, to
federally mandated stormwater requirements, to negotiated contract wage
increases—at a time when our revenues are going down—due to federal tax cuts,
federal funding cuts, and declining revenues received from Illinois for income
and replacement tax. And, of course
like everyone who has invested money over the last several years, our
investment income on things like pension funds have been taking a beating
because of the sagging stock market over the last two years.
We’re hopeful that some signs the economy is turning
around may bear fruit. Some upticks in
the stock market during late 2002 and added purchasing by manufacturers of new
equipment give signs for cautious optimism; although as Alan Greenspan and
others have noted, the prospect of war in Iraq endangers these hopeful
developments.
We have lots of company in
these challenging times. As during the
1980’s, one consequence has been even greater cooperation between area cities
to try to come up with creative solutions to the problems we face. Cooperative efforts in marketing the Quad
Cities, in lobbying for our area’s interests in Washington and our state
capitals, in crafting area-wide solutions to deal with the possible problems of
terrorism, and a growing consciousness that the Quad Cities is a great place to
live and grow your business, are all factors working in our favor as we try to
position ourselves for the days ahead.
Within Rock Island, an experienced and focused City
Council, an innovative and hard working staff, and a public that has been
supportive of innovative solutions and community involvement, all point to
confidence for the future.
In this process, we must focus our sights on five key
objectives:
1) retaining
the high standard of service the citizens of Rock Island have grown to expect
and which they deserve;
2) endeavoring
to hold the line on property tax increases consistent with preservation of high
quality services,
3) making current and new enterprise funds—from our golf
courses to the Marina to our Fitness and Activity Center—self-supporting and
profitable,
4) using
our gaming dollars not for general operations (because the source is not
entirely reliable), but creatively and effectively to help cover capital costs
and to stimulate economic renewal and expansion. Our gaming revenues are a unique resource which Rock Island
possesses and which we must use resourcefully when times are difficult to
position ourselves strongly for when times get better.
5) Finally,
we must work with our public and private partners to create opportunities to do
more with less. Regionalism works: whether lobbying in Washington or planning
to deal with homeland security issues, or joint purchasing. We must do more of this to do better for the
public we serve.
Conclusion:
As in past years, I can
express a firm belief that Rock Island is moving forward in a positive and
dynamic way. Ours is not the dramatic
overnight growth experienced by some communities, instead it is a quiet
incremental progress that is supported by many players over a broad base, and
generating a great range of amenities. These amenities include excellent
libraries and parks, outstanding public and private schools, and wonderful
cultural, health care, and entertainment facilities. We possess a remarkable tradition of outstanding public service
by many; and a willingness on the part of government to work with private
sector partners to foster responsible community growth.
Although the times—like the
tough times experienced in the 1980’s—will test us, we have in the past and
will in the future rise to this challenge if we collectively put our minds and
our shoulders to the task.
May we together build an ever
better community for the sake of all who live here now and for future
generations of Rock Islanders.
Thank you. Mark W. Schwiebert, Mayor January 6, 2003
Agenda Item #8
4, 5 AVENUE, 21, 22 STREETS/ALLEY VACATION
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance vacating a segment of the north/south alley between 4th and 5th Avenues and 21st and 22nd Streets.
A motion made by
Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Winter to pass the Ordinance
FAILED on a Roll Call vote. AYES:
Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter and White. NAYS: Alderman Forlini. (NOTE: This vote required three fourths
of the total elected officials, which would be six affirmative votes, to pass.)
Agenda Item #9
FALSE ALARMS/CHAPTER 8
The City Clerk read an Ordinance amending Section 8-59, Division 2, Chapter 8, regarding an increase in the penalties for the false alarms. A motion made by Alderman Bauersfeld and seconded by Alderman Winter to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #10
1610 18 AVENUE/SPECIAL USE
PERMIT AMENDMENT
The City Clerk read a Special Ordinance granting a Special Use Permit to operate a dog and cat grooming business at 1610 18th Avenue. A motion made by Alderman Winter and seconded by Alderman Forlini to consider, suspend the rules and pass the Ordinance CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #11a
The City Clerk read a statement from the City Attorney in the amount of $7,015.17 for legal services during the month of December.
Agenda Item #11b
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Triad Engineering in the amount of $14,465.60 for services relating to the Turkey Hollow Road Watermain Extension.
Agenda Item #11c
MISSMAN,
STANLEY AND ASSOCIATES/PARKING STRUCTURE
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department recommending payment to Missman, Stanley and Associates in the amount of $5,519.60 for services relating to the 16th Street and 3rd Avenue Parking Structure Renovations.
Agenda Item #11d
SHIVE-HATTERY/3
AVENUE RECONSTRUCTION-REHABILITATION
A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman White to accept the reports and authorize payments as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #12
DECEMBER 20, 2002 – JANUARY 2,
2003
The City Clerk read the claims for the weeks of December 20, 2002, through January 2, 2003, in the amount of $1,580,255.76. A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman Winter to allow the claims CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #13
The City Clerk read the payroll for the weeks of December 9 through 22 in the amount of $854,895.73.
|
GENERAL FUND |
$576,011.08 |
|
COMMUNITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT |
61.34 |
|
MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. CENTER |
2,861.59 |
|
FEDERAL COPS GRANT |
3,899.71 |
|
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT |
20,454.32 |
|
LIBRARY |
37,854.50 |
|
ELDERLY SERVICE CONTRIBUTION |
3,678.66 |
|
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS |
12,521.97 |
|
WATER |
51,840.27 |
|
SEWER |
39,601.74 |
|
BRIDGE |
7,720.04 |
|
SUNSET MARINA |
7,243.06 |
|
PARK AND RECREATION |
53,366.04 |
|
EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE |
21,820.34 |
|
SELF INSURANCE |
1,538.55 |
|
EMPLOYEE HEALTH INSURANCE |
640.50 |
|
CAFETERIA PLAN |
5,956.39 |
|
M L K ACTIVITY FUND |
4,556.98 |
|
DRUG PREVENTION |
3,268.65 |
TOTAL |
$854,895.73 |
A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman Winter to allow the payroll CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #14
The City Clerk read a report from the Personnel Department regarding Joint Purchasing Council bids for water treatment chemicals to be purchased during the coming year, recommending the bids listed for each item.
A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to accept the bids as recommended and authorize purchases CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #15
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding bids for the purchase of sign posts and sign materials, recommending the bids be awarded to the low compliant bidders listed. A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman Winter to award the bids as recommended and authorize purchase CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #16
UPPER R I COUNTY LANDFILL/NEW
COST
The City Clerk read a report from the Public Works Department regarding landfill disposal at Upper Rock Island County Landfill, at the new cost for 2003 of $46.00 per ton. Alderman Winter asked if this would be on an as-needed basis only, and Public Works Director Bob Hawes responded that it would. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to accept the proposed cost as recommended CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #17
The City Clerk read a report from the Finance Department regarding the renewal of the Cisco Telecommunications Equipment Maintenance, recommending the bid of CDW-G in the amount of $5,878.90. Alderman Winter asked about the other bids that were not included in the report. Claire Dubuisson, IS Manager, responded that there was actually only one other bid at a higher cost of $6,694, and 4CS, who had the contract last year did not respond. Following discussion, a motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Bauersfeld to authorize purchase of the maintenance contract as recommended and authorize payment CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
Agenda Item #18
This was a report from the Traffic Engineering Committee regarding a request from Dawn Snyder, Principal of Rock Island High School, for 25th Avenue crosswalks for Rock Island High School, recommending denial of the request. At the request of the school personnel, this was withdrawn from the Agenda earlier in the day.
INSPECTION
SERVICES/SHARE WITH MOLINE
City Manager John Phillips noted the information regarding the sharing of staff from the Inspection Division. He noted that the report was prepared by Greg Champagne, Community and Economic Development Department Director, and asked for Council feedback at this time. He stated that the recommendation was to move ahead on an interim basis to see if this type of sharing makes any sense. He stated that there is some risk involved.
Mr. Champagne reviewed the report. He indicated that the report presented an approach to covering the costs and gaining some increased revenue to the City over and above our costs. He suggested that a salary increase would be in order for these two employees who were being asked to accept additional responsibilities, suggesting 10%. Alderman Winter expressed concern for the salaries following the termination of this short-term contract, and asked if these salaries would then be decreased to the current level. Mr. Champagne stated that would be expected. He noted that Crawford Company would be asked to do some of the inspections that Bill Newberry would not be able to address with his new duties, noting that the charges paid by Moline would cover these costs also. He suggested a minimum of eight hours for Tom Ayers, Building Official, and twenty hours for Bill Newberry.
Mr. Champagne discussed some concerns, such as the timing of this exchange. He indicated that staff is in the middle of learning a new permit software system, and questioned the impact of the detraction from this learning and implementation process on the services. He also expressed concern about the continuation of good customer service that the Inspection Division has been able to maintain over the years. He also stated that he was not excited about using Crawford to perform the mechanical inspections but could think of no other alternative. He stated that they are facing some unknowns, and currently they are not requesting an addition of staff.
Alderman Winter expressed concern that the four hours for Moline would increase with the time it takes to go back and forth. Mr. Champagne stated that, since the report was written, the time frame has been changed so Mr. Newberry would actually work in Moline from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., in one block of hours, and then come to Rock Island at 12:30. Alderman Bauersfeld expressed concern that this will reduce the amount of time for the citizens of Rock Island. He indicated he could agree to do this for six months, but if it was to go on longer, he wants to be able to review it more fully. Alderman Brooks expressed the same concerns, and does not want the citizens of Rock Island to lose services.
Alderman Conroy stated that this is something that the Council has previously approved and suggested that the two City Managers work together on sharing services where possible. He indicated that he sees this as a first step and a study to see how the cities can work together and then determine whether or not to go to the second step. Alderman White indicated that she agrees that there should be ways to work together with Moline, but this staff is already undermanned. She stated that the builders and contractors tell her that their needs are not being met at this time, and taking away hours of staff will create further unmet needs. She stated that she is opposed to sharing of time from the Inspection Division. Aldemran Forlini stated that he agrees with the concerns already expressed, and asked what happens to the services provided by persons that will be going to Moline.
City Manager John Phillips stated that the purpose of the presentation of the proposal was to get feedback, and he indicated that there is not additional staffing being planned. He stated that this is being done on an interim approach, and it is difficult to recruit staff for a six-month period of time. He stated that they will take a look at services jointly with Moline, and noted that this is a timely opportunity to try it. He noted also that the two inspectors could go and look at the situation, and perhaps make recommendations for staffing levels in both places.
Alderman Bauersfeld suggested that Mr. Phillips and Mr. Inman work on an agreement with the balance of concerns being addressed, and continue the dialogue. Alderman Winter stated that it is the job of the City Manager to make sure that the services are being delivered to the citizens, and it would be an appropriate policy decision.
Dale Inman, City of Moline, spoke to Council, stating that Moline originally requested fewer hours than are being recommended. He stated that Councils asked staff to think outside the box, and provide services. He noted that this is being done in other areas successfully. He noted that they have accepted applications for the job of Building Official, but no one person had qualifications in all areas that were necessary for the position. The conclusion was that staff would come back to Council with a proposed contract after further exploration.
Mr. Phillips called attention to the information regarding the “Quad City Watershed Partnership Update” from the Public Works Director.
Alderman Bauersfeld noted that there were two articles in the Rock Island Argus regarding the number of absences of Council members. He noted that the numbers were accurate, but clarified that the attendance was done for two meetings on the same night – the Study Session followed by the Regular Meeting, so the numbers printed should be divided in two for a more accurate result.
Alderman Forlini noted that there were six water main breaks earlier in the day. He stated that the residents should boil water for at least five minutes over the next twenty-four hours. Bob Hawes, Public Works Director, stated that the residents that were affected have been notified with door hangers. Alderman White asked how they would know if the door hangers are placed on the door that is less frequently used. Mr. Hawes stated that they not only have the door hangers, but they knock on each door, and hand the door hanger to the resident as well as explain what they need to do. He stated that when the boil order is lifted the residents would again be notified in the same way. Alderman Conroy asked if the Public Access station could be used for this type of notification, and Mr. Hawes stated that they try not to use public media information because this upsets too many people needlessly. He stated that in these instances, the areas are isolated areas where the persons involved are notified.
Alderman Forlini suggested that everyone have a couple gallons of water in their freezer all year round for emergency situations like this.
Mayor Schwiebert noted that he distributed information from a magazine from November 2000 that addressed the trends that the City Governments will be facing regarding budget and finances, and are facing now.
Agenda Item #18
RIHS
TRAFFIC
Mr. Souder, 1310 25th Avenue, asked about the item on the Agenda regarding the Rock Island High School. He was not aware that it was pulled from the Agenda, and asked what they were requesting. City Manager John Phillips explained that the school had requested that the time be removed until they could discuss options with staff. Mr. Souder asked if the student who was hit was in a crosswalk, indicating that would be important to know. Mr. Phillips stated that we did not have that information available at this time, and school administration would be working with staff to review the situation and try to address the problems. He indicated that the issue and/or request may come back to the Council at a later date.
EXECUTIVE SESSION
A motion made by Alderman Forlini and seconded by Alderman White to recess to Executive Session on Personnel CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
The meeting was recessed at 7:55 p.m.
Mayor Schwiebert reconvened the regular meeting at 8:34 p.m. A motion made by Alderman White and seconded by Alderman Conroy to recess to Monday, January 13, 2003, at 5:00 p.m. CARRIED on a Roll Call vote. AYES: Aldermen Brooks, Conroy, Bauersfeld, Winter, White and Forlini. NAYS: None.
The meeting was recessed at 8:35 p.m.
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Jeanne F. Paggen, City Clerk